Falcons running back Devonta Freeman (knee), defensive end Derrick Shelby (knee) and cornerback Justin Bethel (knee) will not play against the Bengals at 1 p.m. Sunday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, according to coach Dan Quinn.

Defensive end Takk McKinley, who’s tied for the team lead in sacks with two, is set to return from his groin injury.

Freeman, who returned to practice Thursday after a helmet hit his knee late in the season opener against the Eagles on Sept. 6, likely will return next week against Pittsburgh.

With Freeman out, his time-share partner Tevin Coleman rushed for 107 yards on 26 carries in the 31-24 win over Carolina. In the 43-37 overtime loss to the Saints, Coleman was held in check. He had 15 carries for 33 yards.

Subscribe to "The Bow Tie Chronicles" podcast with the AJC's D. Orlando Ledbetter on iTunes or on the new AJC sports podcasts page.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Wisconsin offensive lineman Jack Nelson speaks during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine Saturday, March 1, 2025, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)

Credit: AP

Featured

U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff, D-Ga., speaks during a town hall on Friday, April 25, 2025, in Atlanta at the Cobb County Civic Center. (Jason Allen/Atlanta Journal-Constitution)

Credit: Jason Allen/AJC